The Char Dham Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Hinduism, attracting devotees from across India who seek spiritual purification, inner peace, and divine blessings. The yatra covers the four revered shrines of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, located in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. Pilgrims believe that visiting these dhams absolves sins, strengthens faith, and brings the grace of the Divine.
Starting the Char Dham Yatra from Chandigarh, the beautiful city at the foothills of the Shivalik ranges, allows devotees from North India to begin their pilgrimage conveniently. Traveling in a Tempo Traveller ensures comfort, flexibility, and safety while navigating long distances and challenging mountain roads.
A 12-day Char Dham Yatra from Chandigarh is meticulously planned to balance spiritual darshan, scenic travel, and adequate rest, making it ideal for families, senior citizens, and first-time pilgrims.
Why Choose a Tempo Traveller for Char Dham Yatra?
Himalayan travel requires a reliable, spacious, and comfortable vehicle to manage winding roads, steep climbs, and long journeys. A Tempo Traveller is perfect for group travel during the Char Dham pilgrimage.
Advantages of Tempo Traveller Rental:
- Comfortable reclining seats for long hours of travel
- Spacious seating for 9–17 passengers and luggage
- Experienced drivers familiar with Himalayan terrain
- Freedom to stop for meals, sightseeing, and photography
- Cost-effective for groups compared to multiple cars or cabs
Using a Tempo Traveller allows pilgrims to travel together, enjoy the scenic Himalayan landscapes, and focus entirely on spiritual experiences without transportation worries.
Char Dham Yatra Overview from Chandigarh
- Total Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
- Starting & Ending Point: Chandigarh
- Vehicle Used: Tempo Traveller (based on group size)
- Major Destinations Covered:
- Yamunotri
- Gangotri
- Kedarnath
- Badrinath
- Best Time to Travel: May to June & September to October
- Ideal For: Families, senior citizens, and groups of devotees
Day 1: Chandigarh to Haridwar
The journey begins with pilgrims departing from Chandigarh to Haridwar in a Tempo Traveller. The drive, covering picturesque landscapes and plains of North India, takes around 6–7 hours.
Upon arrival, pilgrims check into their hotel and spend the evening visiting Har Ki Pauri, the sacred ghat on the banks of the Ganga. Witnessing the evening Ganga Aarti, with hundreds of lamps floating on the river and Vedic chants in the air, provides a spiritually charged start to the yatra. Overnight stay in Haridwar.
Day 2: Haridwar to Barkot
After breakfast, the group departs for Barkot, the base town for visiting Yamunotri, situated in the scenic Yamuna valley. The journey passes through verdant hills, rivers, and forests, gradually climbing the Himalayan foothills.
Pilgrims check into their hotel in Barkot and rest, preparing for the trek to Yamunotri the next day.
Day 3: Barkot – Yamunotri – Barkot
Early morning, pilgrims drive to Janki Chatti, the starting point for the 6 km trek to Yamunotri Temple. Devotees can choose to trek or hire ponies or palkis for convenience.
At Yamunotri, devotees worship Goddess Yamuna, take a holy dip in the Surya Kund hot springs, and offer prayers amidst the snow-capped peaks. The serene environment and divine energy make this visit a deeply spiritual experience.
After darshan, pilgrims return to Barkot for overnight stay.
Day 4: Barkot to Uttarkashi
The journey continues to Uttarkashi, a sacred town along the Bhagirathi River, known as the “Kashi of the North.” The town is home to ancient Shiva temples and offers a tranquil environment for meditation and spiritual reflection.
Pilgrims visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and rest to acclimatize to the Himalayan climate, preparing for the journey to Gangotri.
Day 5: Uttarkashi – Gangotri – Uttarkashi
Early morning, pilgrims drive to Gangotri, the source of the River Ganga, surrounded by majestic snow-clad Himalayan peaks. At the Gangotri Temple, devotees perform rituals and offer prayers to Ganga Mata, soaking in the pristine and serene environment.
After darshan, pilgrims return to Uttarkashi for overnight stay.
Day 6: Uttarkashi to Guptkashi / Sitapur
Today, pilgrims travel to Guptkashi or Sitapur, the base town for visiting Kedarnath. The route along the Mandakini River offers panoramic views of rivers, valleys, and dense forests.
Upon arrival, pilgrims check into the hotel and rest to prepare for the Kedarnath trek the following day.
Day 7: Guptkashi – Kedarnath
Early morning, pilgrims drive to Gaurikund, the starting point of the 18 km trek to Kedarnath Temple. Ponies, palkis, and helicopter services are available for those requiring assistance.
Kedarnath, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, is located at an altitude of 3,583 meters. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the ancient stone temple exudes immense spiritual energy and devotion.
Overnight stay near Kedarnath Temple.
Day 8: Kedarnath to Guptkashi
After morning darshan, pilgrims trek back to Gaurikund and return to Guptkashi by Tempo Traveller. This day allows for rest and recovery after the physically demanding Kedarnath trek.
Day 9: Guptkashi to Badrinath
The pilgrimage continues to Badrinath, passing through Joshimath, an important spiritual town. The route offers scenic views of Himalayan valleys, rivers, and snow-covered peaks.
Upon arrival, pilgrims take a holy bath in the Tapt Kund and perform darshan at the Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Overnight stay at Badrinath.
Day 10: Badrinath – Mana Village – Joshimath
In the morning, pilgrims attend temple rituals and perform darshan at Badrinath. Later, the group visits Mana Village, the last Indian village before the Indo-Tibetan border, rich in mythology and associated with the Mahabharata.
After sightseeing, pilgrims drive to Joshimath for overnight stay.
Day 11: Joshimath to Haridwar / Rishikesh
The return journey begins via Tempo Traveller toward Haridwar or Rishikesh. The scenic drive provides time for reflection on the spiritual experiences and majestic Himalayan landscapes witnessed during the yatra.
In Rishikesh, pilgrims may visit Ram Jhula, Laxman Jhula, and attend the evening Ganga Aarti. Overnight stay en route or in Haridwar.
Day 12: Haridwar – Chandigarh
On the final day, pilgrims are transferred to Haridwar railway station or Dehradun airport for the onward journey back to Chandigarh, marking the completion of the 12-day Char Dham Yatra. Devotees return spiritually fulfilled, blessed, and with memories that will last a lifetime.